Conservative Party blocks The National from Kemi Badenoch's Scotland press briefing

The Conservative Party barred The National from a press gathering with Kemi Badenoch during her Scottish trip, a decision that appears at odds with her recent criticism of Reform UK for excluding media at its conference. Badenoch had labeled Reform's actions as authoritarian and affirmed support for one outlet, yet her own party's staff denied The National access. Laura Webster, editor of The National, denounced the move as hypocritical, noting the paper's clear constitutional position and accusing the Tories of disrespecting a segment of the Scottish electorate.

When questioned, Badenoch claimed she was unaware of the restriction and said she was happy to engage with any reporter. The party did not provide an explanation for the specific exclusion, and no other outlets were reported to be similarly blocked.